Tell Congress: Pass the Scientific Integrity Act

April 21, 2017

Many thousands of people in cities across the United States are preparing to take part in historic marches in defense of science on Saturday. But in Congress, the march has already begun — and the Center for Inquiry (CFI) needs your help to build momentum.

Scientists at federal agencies are witnessing unprecedented political interference in the scientific process, and a torrent of rhetoric impugning their work. In response, Rep. Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) has proposed the Scientific Integrity Act (H.R. 1358), a bill to defend and bolster the place of science in federal research and policymaking. This measure:

Declares that policy decisions should be fully informed by science, free from inappropriate politics, ideology, or financial conflicts of interest;

Requires each federal agency that funds or conducts scientific research to establish scientific integrity principles; and

Helps facilitate the free flow of scientific and technological information while protecting privacy, confidentiality, and national security.

The Scientific Integrity Act already has 114 cosponsors, but more support is needed. That’s where you come in.

It is critical that the way science is conducted, reviewed, communicated to the public, and incorporated into policymaking be transparent, and free from improper influence. Inquiry must be free, and facts and evidence matter.

CFI urges you to use our pre-written form to write to your U.S. representative and urge them to support and work for passage of H.R. 1358. Also, the most effective way to follow-up is by calling your U.S. representative to reiterate your views. The Capitol switchboard can be reached at (202) 224-3121, and all you need is your zip code to be connected to your representative’s office.